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Diet's Impact on Hair Wellness: Nutrients for a Lush Mane
Although many people focus on hair care products and styling techniques to achieve shiny, voluminous hair, the nutritional component of hair care is often overlooked. The nutrients we consume are crucial for the growth, strength, and overall appearance of our hair. A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients can significantly improve hair quality, turning it from lackluster to lively and robust. This article delves into the connection between nutrition and hair health, identifies the nutrients that foster hair growth, and discusses how your dietary choices can either support or detract from the vibrancy of your hair. 1. Recognizing the Link Between Hair Growth and Nutrition Hair is primarily composed of a protein known as keratin, which is synthesized in the hair follicles on the scalp. Hair growth is part of a cycle that includes the anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting) phases. To maintain hair health and encourage growth, the body must supply hair follicles with the necessary nutrients to support this cycle. Just as other bodily functions rely on proper nutrition, hair also requires specific vitamins and minerals for optimal health. A deficiency in these nutrients can lead to hair loss, slow growth, or hair thinning.2. Key Nutrients for Hair Health Several nutrients are essential for hair growth and health. Here, we explore the most important nutrients for maintaining hair health. 2.1 Protein Given that hair is largely composed of protein (keratin), it's clear that protein is vital for hair health. A diet deficient in protein can lead to hair thinning or loss, as the body may lack the necessary building blocks to form new hair strands. Top Sources of Protein: Eggs Fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines) Poultry Legumes (lentils, chickpeas) Soy products (tofu, tempeh) Greek yogurt Incorporating these protein-rich foods into your diet can help nourish hair follicles and promote the growth of strong, healthy hair. 2.2 Biotin (Vitamin B7) Biotin, or Vitamin B7, is a well-known vitamin for hair health. It is a water-soluble B-vitamin that aids in the production of keratin, the protein that constitutes hair. A deficiency in biotin can result in thin and brittle hair, underscoring the importance of sufficient dietary intake. Top Sources of Biotin: Eggs Nuts (almonds) Root vegetables (sweet potatoes) Leafy greens (spinach) Fruits (avocados) Whole grains (oats) While biotin supplements are popular for hair health, it's preferable to obtain this nutrient from a balanced diet with whole foods. 2.3 Vitamin C Vitamin C is an antioxidant that is crucial for collagen production, a protein that supports hair structure. Collagen strengthens hair follicles and protects against breakage. Additionally, Vitamin C aids in iron absorption, a nutrient essential for hair health. Top Sources of Vitamin C: Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruits) Berries (strawberries) Peppers (bell peppers) Fruits (kiwi) Fruits (pineapple) Vegetables (broccoli) Vitamin C also combats oxidative stress, which can damage hair follicles and hinder growth. 2.4 Iron Iron is crucial for hair health as it assists red blood cells in transporting oxygen
How OEM Eyeshadow Makers Guard Your Brand Against Beauty Hazards
When you collaborate with a private label eyeshadow maker who truly values safety and quality, you build on a foundation of care. Every shade, texture and pigment reflects the promise that your products will look good and stay safe for the people who wear them. This is how trust grows, through products that protect both your customers and the reputation of your brand.ContentsPrioritize safe formulations that protect consumer skinStrengthen product reliability through extensive testingComply with global cosmetic safety standards and regulationsInnovate with clean and ethical beauty formulationsProtect end users through hygienic production and packagingPrioritize safe formulations that protect consumer skinWhen developing an eyeshadow line, the formula defines how safe it is for daily use. Experienced OEM partners only use tested and approved color additives in cosmetics to prevent irritation or allergic reactions. Their chemists select ingredients that are gentle on the skin, yet deliver rich, long-lasting color payoff.As a brand owner, you can be confident that you are offering products that your customers can trust and use with confidence. A well-balanced formula can contain skincare-inspired actives that soothe the skin, add a touch of beauty care while keeping each shade safe and reliable.Strengthen product reliability through extensive testingYou may not see what’s happening behind the scenes, but real testing goes far beyond a quick lab check. OEM labs subject formulas to heat, time, motion and other conditions that simulate how a palette is handled and used after it leaves the factory. These tests help identify issues that could affect the texture or safety of the product well before launch..ud92f8915eef7c1ea4c89247f2e7fad33 { padding:0px; margin: 0; padding-top:1em!important; padding-bottom:1em!important; width:100%; display: block; font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaeaea; border:0!important; border-left:4px solid #34495E!important; text-decoration:none; } .ud92f8915eef7c1ea4c89247f2e7fad33:active, .ud92f8915eef7c1ea4c89247f2e7fad33:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; text-decoration:none; } .ud92f8915eef7c1ea4c89247f2e7fad33 { transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; } .ud92f8915eef7c1ea4c89247f2e7fad33 .ctaText { font-weight:bold; color:#464646; text-decoration:none; font-size: 16px; } .ud92f8915eef7c1ea4c89247f2e7fad33 .postTitle { color:#9B59B6; text-decoration: underline!important; font-size: 16px; } .ud92f8915eef7c1ea4c89247f2e7fad33:hover .postTitle { text-decoration: underline!important; } See alsoThis brand is launching a new luxury boho chic beach resort in TulumA good partner pays attention to what users actually experience: powder that mixes evenly, stays clean and lasts a long time on the shelf. That’s what separates reliable products from products that ultimately disappoint customers.Comply with global cosmetic safety standards and regulationsCompliance may sound technical, but it’s really about keeping people safe and keeping your business stable. OEM manufacturers remain abreast of regulations set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the European Union (EU), the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and other relevant industry-recognized entities. Each of these has its own checklist, for example for labeling and traceability, so that nothing slips through the cracks.For beauty entrepreneurs expanding into new regions, this level of precision helps avoid delays and expensive recalls. You may not handle the paperwork yourself, but knowing your partner does can instill a calm confidence in any product that bears your name.Innovate with clean and ethical beauty formulationsYou’ve probably noticed how consumers look at ingredient lists these days. Many want vegan, cruelty-free or toxin-free makeup that still feels luxurious. More and more OEM innovators are creating eyeshadow formulas that feel safer and cleaner while still providing the smooth, vibrant finish people expect.When your brand embraces this level of wording, it sends a clear message about your values. It shows that you focus not only on how makeup looks in good light, but also on how it feels and cares for those who use it every day.Protect end users through hygienic production and packagingEven a perfect formula can fail if hygiene is overlooked..u6999fb87a3dd1b7854ef5c4fdd206ea7 { padding:0px; margin: 0; padding-top:1em!important; padding-bottom:1em!important; width:100%; display: block; font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaeaea; border:0!important; border-left:4px solid #34495E!important; text-decoration:none; } .u6999fb87a3dd1b7854ef5c4fdd206ea7:active, .u6999fb87a3dd1b7854ef5c4fdd206ea7:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; text-decoration:none; } .u6999fb87a3dd1b7854ef5c4fdd206ea7 { transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; } .u6999fb87a3dd1b7854ef5c4fdd206ea7 .ctaText { font-weight:bold; color:#464646; text-decoration:none; font-size: 16px; } .u6999fb87a3dd1b7854ef5c4fdd206ea7 .postTitle { color:#9B59B6; text-decoration: underline!important; font-size: 16px; } .u6999fb87a3dd1b7854ef5c4fdd206ea7:hover .postTitle { text-decoration: underline!important; } See alsoHow To Start Your Own Beauty BusinessAre you fully aware that OEM production takes place in tightly controlled areas where hygiene is paramount? Tools are sterilized between batches and filtered air keeps particles away from open products. Each palette is sealed immediately after filling to ensure freshness and safety. That kind of consistency helps protect your formula and your brand’s reputation.When a customer opens your palette, they experience both beauty and the assurance that safety was never an afterthought.Do you need a trusted cosmetic manufacturer for your brand? MPlus Cosmetics is everything you need.
Top Stories
Gen Z was growing obsessed with luxury watches. New tariffs on Switzerland could cool the expensive hobby
Emily Brown
Gen Z has become one of the largest consumer basesfor luxury Swiss-made watches. Now the Trump administration’s 39% tariff on Switzerland may change price-sensitive consumer behavior. But experts tellFortunetop watchmakers like Rolex and Patek Philippe may not see much of a demand shift as young luxury watch buyers crave the social currency that comes with the brands.Gen Z’s fascination with luxury watches has been one of the more surprising consumer trends of the past few years. But a steep tariff hike on Switzerland could threaten its market: American youth.Recommended VideoGen Z—alongside younger millennials—have embraced luxury timepieces as status symbols, posting them on TikTok and Instagram and helping reshape an industry long dominated by older collectors. A recent BCG survey found 54% of Gen Z respondents had increased their spending on luxury watches since 2021, and Sotheby’s estimated nearly a third of its watch sales in 2023 went to buyers age 30 and under.But a new 39% U.S. tariff on Switzerland could make this hobby more expensive and potentially less attainable for first-time buyers. The duty, imposed during President Donald Trump’s latest round of tariffs, hits the world’s most important market for Swiss watch exports. From January to June, the U.S. overtook Japan and China as the top destination, with $3.17 billion ( 2.56 billion Swiss francs) worth shipped, according to the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry.“Companies cannot realistically absorb the tariff, which means retail prices in the U.S. will rise sharply,” Marcus Altenburg, managing partner at Swiss law firm Goldblum & Partners, toldFortune.For American buyers, especially younger ones, the math is straightforward: Prices are going up, Anish Bhatt, a millennial “watchfluencer” with 1.6 million followers on Instagram, toldFortune. While the 39% levy applies to an importer’s cost, not full retail, industry analysts predict a 12% to 14% increase in store prices if brands pass on the cost to consumers.“For many American collectors, the 39% tariff instantly turned new releases from Swiss brands into a luxury few can justify,” Joshua Ganjei, CEO of European Watch Company in Boston, toldFortune. “The pre‑owned market is now the best option for value and immediate availability—no import headaches and no sticker shock.”That shift to secondhand is already underway, since availability in the primary market is so limited, Bhatt said.Still, a 2024 report by Watchfinder & Co. found 41% of Gen Zers ages 16 to 26 came into possession of a luxury watch the previous year, and individuals in this age bracket who are ready to buy a luxury timepiece said $10,870 would be the starting point for their next purchase. The same report found that Gen Z watch enthusiasts acquired an average of 2.4 firsthand watches and 1.43 pre-owned in 2023, with over half buying for themselves. Altenburg expects Gen Z and millennial buyers, who tend to be more price‑sensitive than older collectors, to gravitate to domestic pre‑owned and gray‑market sellers to sidestep tariffs. Ganjei said his company has “seen a dramatic increase in purchasing volume over the past few months as U.S. buyers shy away from international sellers.”On the other hand, watchfluencer Bhatt said younger consumers still crave the “social currency” that comes with a Rolex, Patek Philippe, or Audemars Piguet, even if they pay more to get it. “They also understand the status that it gives them,” Bhatt said. The social cachet of a Swiss-made watch plays out daily on social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and influencer channels, boosting aspirational demand, he said.Bhatt doesn’t expect demand for the most coveted brands to vanish but says mid‑tier Swiss names without top brand prestige could see sales slow. The added cost may also push Americans to buy while traveling in Europe—where they can sometimes reclaim value added tax (VAT)—and bring pieces back themselves, potentially avoiding tariffs altogether, Bhatt said.“It could be that allocation of pieces is shifted toward other territories over time,” he added, “because they see demand increase in Europe or the Middle East and diminish a bit in the U.S.”For the Swiss industry, the stakes go beyond sticker prices. Altenburg warned that sustained U.S. weakness could pressure employment and supply chains in watchmaking regions, while forcing brands to rethink distribution, pricing, and even corporate structures to blunt the tariff’s impact.Bhatt thinks marketing to younger generations will also matter more in a cooling market. “When the market’s high, they rely just on brand value and brand name,” he said. “When the market is low, they need people to understand the rarity and complexity and difficulty in producing these rare watches.”All said, the tariff probably won’t kill Gen Z’s fascination with luxury watches, but it could redraw the road map for how and where they buy them. The social media posts of vintage Daytonas and Nautiluses are unlikely to disappear. What may change is that, for many young Americans, the product may increasingly be secondhand, and possibly stamped by a boutique in Paris or Milan.Join us at the Fortune Workplace Innovation SummitMay 19–20, 2026, in Atlanta. The next era of workplace innovation is here—and the old playbook is being rewritten. At this exclusive, high-energy event, the world’s most innovative leaders will convene to explore how AI, humanity, and strategy converge to redefine, again, the future of work. Register now.
Sweetgreen’s CEO is beefing up protein portion sizes because corporate America is demanding more from $16 sad desk salads
Emily Jones
Faced with slumping lunch traffic from downtown offices and waning consumer interest in pricey salads, Sweetgreen CEO Jonathan Neman is leaning into America’s 2020s-era protein craze. The fast-casual salad chain announced significant changes to its menu this summer—a response to shifting habits in corporate America, where employees are less likely to order delivery salads for solitary desk lunches, and are demanding more value for their dollar.Recommended VideoSweetgreen’s turnaround strategy includes 25% bigger portions of chicken and tofu, recipe upgrades for proteins like chicken and salmon, and member deals on salads as cheap as $13. The decision follows months of disappointing sales: Same-store sales have dropped by as much as 7.6% this summer, with a reported 10.1% plunge in customer traffic. Sweetgreen also cut its annual outlook for the second quarter in a row as it struggles to keep budget-strained diners interested in salads averaging $16 a bowl.Same-store sales are now expected to decline 4%-6% for 2025, a stark reversal from previous hopes for flat performance. It was a bruising second quarter for the salad chain, and investors responded by sending Sweetgreen shares plunging more than 25% to their lowest levels since 2023. The stock has lost more than 70% of its value since January, and is trading well below its IPO price of $28.“So I think it’s pretty obvious that the consumer is not in a great place overall,” Neman said Thursday in the company’s second-quarter earnings call. Several factors have converged to force Sweetgreen’s hand. The biggest: Working habits have permanently changed since the pandemic. Corporate lunch orders, once the backbone of Sweetgreen’s urban business, have slumped as office occupancy fluctuates and hybrid schedules persist. Affluent customers, long willing to shell out for digitally ordered salads, are now scrutinizing every expense as inflation pinches and economic uncertainty lingers.Business districts, once Sweetgreen’s prime locations, are no longer packed with lunchtime regulars. Instead, urban outlets now depend on local traffic and dinner orders—which require more substantial fare than a bowl of greens. Sweetgreen’s own consumer surveys reveal guests want more protein—the gravitational center of a “meal” that feels worth its ticket price.Slowing growth and mounting lossesFor the quarter ended June 29, Sweetgreen reported total revenue of $185.6 million, barely up from $184.6 million a year prior—an increase of just 0.5% and well below Wall Street expectations of $191.73 million. Traffic sharply deteriorated even as Sweetgreen raised menu prices, with executives citing a “more cautious consumer environment” and headwinds in urban markets where office lunch traffic remains weak.Restaurant-level profit margin dropped to 18.9% from 22.5% a year prior, squeezed by higher food costs (notably new tariffs on packaging) and rising labor costs. The company posted a net loss of $23.2 million, widening from a $14.5 million loss in the prior year, and reported adjusted EBITDA of $6.4 million—down by nearly half from last year’s $12.4 million.Neman cited drag from the revamped SG Rewards loyalty program, which prompted fewer repeat visits; only one-third of Sweetgreen restaurants currently meet operational standards for speed and consistency. The firm recently hired former Chipotle executive Jason Cochran as COO to address issues ranging from portioning to speed across both digital and in-store channels. Sweetgreen is also closing two underperforming locations and recording a $5.3 million impairment charge.Management cautiously optimistic, but confidence shakenDespite the rocky performance, Sweetgreen is forging ahead with expansion, opening nine new restaurants (including four Infinite Kitchens) in Q2, and plans for at least 40 new openings this year—many featuring automation and lower labor requirements. Neman and CFO Mitch Reback stressed “actions taken are already showing positive results,” pointing to steady improvement in guest frequency from the revamped loyalty program and enthusiasm for seasonal menu items.Still, the street remains skeptical. Sweetgreen’s stumbles have reinforced doubts about whether premium salad chains can thrive in today’s value-conscious dining environment, especially as hybrid work saps the desk-lunch crowd and consumers search for more affordable options.Feedback on the new protein portions has been swift: Guest satisfaction improved by 30% following the July rollout of larger chicken and tofu servings. In recent weeks, Sweetgreen has expanded its repertoire with “protein plates”—larger servings of steak, chicken, or tofu over grains, aimed at winning dinner traffic and meeting customer demand for heartier offerings.When Sweetgreen first tested steak protein plates in Boston, the item accounted for nearly 20% of dinner orders—a sign that more substantial meals may be a key to capturing lost revenue from desk salads. “We need to meet people where they are. For us, it’s about healthier options that are still filling,” Neman said. Steak is sourced from grass-fed, regenerative farms to keep Sweetgreen’s sustainability ethos intact.Even as Sweetgreen tweaks its menu, reviews and ratings remain mixed. Some loyalists grumbled for months about skimpy chicken portions. Reddit threads catalog the question of whether portions are getting smaller for the $16 bowl, and company executives acknowledge that consistency remains a concern.For this story, Fortune used generative AI to help with an initial draft. An editor verified the accuracy of the information before publishing. Join us at the Fortune Workplace Innovation SummitMay 19–20, 2026, in Atlanta. The next era of workplace innovation is here—and the old playbook is being rewritten. At this exclusive, high-energy event, the world’s most innovative leaders will convene to explore how AI, humanity, and strategy converge to redefine, again, the future of work. Register now.
Elon Musk’s Tesla Diner is a next step in the beleaguered EV-maker’s plan to create an ‘all-encompassing brand,’ analyst Dan Ives says
Emily Brown
Tesla is making its foray into the restaurant business,opening its first Tesla Diner on Monday. The concept is serving french fries and burgers, but also features charging stations, movie screens, and Optimus robots. As the EV maker continues to limp, Wedbush analyst Dan Ives said the diner is a way for Tesla to revive its battered brand.A tuna melt served in a cardboard Cybertruck box is just all part of Tesla’s recovery plan. Recommended VideoThe EV maker has ventured into the hospitality industry, opening the first Tesla Diner in Los Angeles on Monday. The retro-futuristic restaurant, complete with movie screens and 80 Tesla charging stations, will also serve up diner classics, from $12 “epic bacon” to $4 tallow-fried french fries to $13 hot dogs. The restaurant has enlisted the help of Tesla’s Optimus robots to serve popcorn to patrons. The Tesla Diner also sells a line of merchandise. Early reviews on social media have praised the food, despite waiting an hour and a half in line for apple pie and hash browns.CEO Elon Musk has already eyed expansion for the open-24/7 concept, which he called an “island of good food, good vibes & entertainment.”“If our retro-futuristic diner turns out well, which I think it will, @Tesla will establish these in major cities around the world, as well as at Supercharger sites on long distance routes,” Musk wrote on social media. Tesla electric vehicles charge as people wait in line outside the Tesla Diner in Los Angeles on July 21. The diner, located along the Historic Route 66, is located at the site of a former Shakey’s Pizza Parlor.I RYU—VCG/Getty ImagesA Tesla Optimus robot serves popcorn to a patron at the opening of the Tesla Diner in Los Angeles on July 19. The diner is complete with movie screens and 80 Tesla charging stations.Carlin Stiehl—Los Angeles Times/Getty ImagesAs other brands jump on the nostalgia-based dining concept—Cheez-It last year opened a Woodstock, New York, diner with Cheez-It milkshakes on the menu—Tesla’s foray into the restaurant business is an opportunity to build hype for a brand that’s taken a beating, according to Tesla bull and Wedbush Securities managing director Dan Ives.“It’s all about brand, and that’s everything that Musk is building in his next phase,” Ives toldFortune. “It fits very well with what they’re trying to do: They’re trying to lay out an all-encompassing brand that eventually goes from the car to the house to a restaurant to other areas of AI.”Tesla continues to struggle in California, where sales have declined for seven straight quarters, including an 18.3% crater in registrations in the state year-to-date. After launching its robotaxi pilot in Austin last month, Tesla has stoked concern for the product’s growth as the service has not yet scaled and has been subject to safety concerns following a near-accident. Musk has rested the fate of the company on the highly anticipated robotaxi, which has not yet created the returns needed to expand the company’s production of its Optimus robot.The restaurant concept, according to Ives, is “Musk building out the next leg of the Tesla growth story.” With a “cult-like following,” Tesla—a company that does not invest in advertising—can begin to incrementally attract customers.Tesla did not respond toFortune’s request for comment.Some food items at the newly opened Tesla Diner in Los Angeles are served in cardboard Cybertruck boxes.Carlin Stiehl / Los Angeles Times—Getty ImagesElon Musk: ‘War-time CEO‘Musk’s renewed focus on Tesla’s brand is what Ives had hoped for after months of pleading for the CEO to distance himself from President Donald Trump, for whom he served as “First Buddy” and ringleader of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) tasked with uprooting bureaucracy and culling billions of dollars in federal spending.But Musk’s controversial role in the Trump administration alienated his eco-conscious customer base, stoking protests against Tesla and drawing ire from investors worried the CEO was taking his attention away from his flailing company. All said, in Musk’s 130-day stint as a special government employee that ended in May, he lost and gained $100 billion of his net worth, ultimately ending his tenure with $27 billion less in wealth than he had before Trump’s inauguration.In March, following Tesla recording its worst single-day sell off, losing $127 billion in market value, Ives called Musk’s proximity to the Trump administration a “brand tornado crisis moment” for Tesla. Now, Ives said the brand damage to Tesla is “contained,” albeit still here.The newly opened Tesla Diner in Los Angeles draws on a retro-futuristic look.PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP—Getty Images“Musk is now more of a wartime CEO,” Ives said. “And it’s about looking forward, not behind.”Earlier this month, Ives outlined in a note to investors how Tesla’s board can help Musk right the ship. He suggested creating an incentive-driven pay package that would give Musk a bigger stake in the company and more voting power in order to keep Musk focused, particularly on a framework to merge Tesla with xAI—a move Musk opposes. Ives also indicated the board should limit Musk’s political pursuits by setting up a committee to oversee his political ambitions, including donations.“Tesla is heading into one of the most important stages of its growth cycle with the autonomous and robotics future now on the doorstep and cannot have Musk spending more and more time creating a political party, which will require countless time, energy, and political capital,” Ives wrote.Join us at the Fortune Workplace Innovation SummitMay 19–20, 2026, in Atlanta. The next era of workplace innovation is here—and the old playbook is being rewritten. At this exclusive, high-energy event, the world’s most innovative leaders will convene to explore how AI, humanity, and strategy converge to redefine, again, the future of work. Register now.
Bad weather and disease in West Africa are making your chocolate bar 10% more expensive—at least
Sarah Jones
Here’s the good news: The Hershey Co. says it’s not raising prices for Halloween candy this year.Recommended VideoBut here’s the bad news: Hershey and other chocolate makers are continuing to hike prices, saying a volatile cocoa market gives them no choice.Hershey, the maker of Reese’s, Whoppers, barkThins and other chocolate candies, said Wednesday that it will be raising U.S. retail prices later this fall. In some cases, pack sizes will get smaller; in others, list prices will rise. The average price increase will be in the low double-digit percentages.“This change is not related to tariffs or trade policies. It reflects the reality of rising ingredient costs including the unprecedented cost of cocoa,” Hershey said in a statement.Hershey stressed that the price increases won’t apply to products specially packaged for Halloween.On Tuesday, Swiss chocolatier Lindt said it raised prices by 15.8% in the first half of this year. The company said it was able to offset some of the higher cost of cocoa with long-term contracts but had to pass much of it on to consumers.“The development of the global chocolate market in the first half of 2025 was a continuation of what we saw in 2024, with cocoa prices remaining close to record highs,” said Adalbert Lechner, Lindt’s CEO, in a conference call with investors.Cloetta, a Swedish confectionary company, told investors last week that it raised chocolate prices in the second quarter. And Nestle raised U.S. prices for products like Toll House chocolate chips in the spring.Cocoa prices have more than doubled over the past two years due to poor weather and disease in West Africa, which supplies more than 70% of the world’s cocoa.Cocoa futures, which are binding contracts for a specific quantity of cocoa, stood at $7,380 per metric ton on Wednesday, according to the International Cocoa Organization, which releases a daily average of prices in London and New York.That’s down from December’s peak of $11,984, but it’s still 121% higher than two years ago.And the situation remains volatile. According to the International Cocoa Organization, prices surged in early June on concerns about production in Ivory Coast but eased on optimistic forecasts for production in Ghana and Latin America. They rose again in late June after heavy rains in West Africa, which could worsen the outbreak of diseases that harm crops.“It’s almost a bit dangerous to comment on this because it’s changing so fast,” Cloetta Chief Financial Officer Frans Ryden said last week in a conference call with investors. “This is something that’s moving hugely up and down all the time.”Meanwhile, prices have been rising on store shelves. The average unit price of a chocolate bar in the U.S. in July 2021 was $2.43, according to Nielsen IQ, a market research company. As of last week, it was $3.45, a 41% increase.That’s hurting customer demand. Nielsen said unit sales of chocolate fell 1.2% in the year ending July 12.Tariffs could also impact U.S. prices. President Donald Trump threatened a 21% tariff on cocoa and other products from Ivory Coast in April, for example, but then paused the tariffs’ implementation.The National Confectioners Association is asking the Trump administration to protect cocoa from tariffs. The group says the U.S. imports nearly $4.4 billion in chocolate, cocoa and candies each year, and the association’s members export nearly $2 billion in American-made chocolates and candy annually.Join us at the Fortune Workplace Innovation SummitMay 19–20, 2026, in Atlanta. The next era of workplace innovation is here—and the old playbook is being rewritten. At this exclusive, high-energy event, the world’s most innovative leaders will convene to explore how AI, humanity, and strategy converge to redefine, again, the future of work. Register now.
Gen Z was growing obsessed with luxury watches. New tariffs on Switzerland could cool the expensive hobby
Emily Brown
Sweetgreen’s CEO is beefing up protein portion sizes because corporate America is demanding more from $16 sad desk salads
Emily Jones
Elon Musk’s Tesla Diner is a next step in the beleaguered EV-maker’s plan to create an ‘all-encompassing brand,’ analyst Dan Ives says
Emily Brown
Bad weather and disease in West Africa are making your chocolate bar 10% more expensive—at least
Sarah Jones
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Cola lovers: PepsiCo has a prebiotic soda in the works for you—and it’s not Poppi
Emily Miller
With the buzz around healthy sodas far from fizzling, Pepsi is doubling down on the emerging segment just months after acquiring one of its pioneers, Poppi, by launching a new innovation: Pepsi Prebiotic Cola.Recommended VideoThe product is “one of the largest new innovations in the cola category,” Mark Kirkham, CMO of PepsiCo Beverages US, told Retail Brew. Containing 5 grams of cane sugar, 30 calories, and 3 grams of prebiotic fiber, the new soda is aimed at giving consumers more soda choices, he said, as Pepsi tries to meet demand for more healthy options. It’ll be sold first online in Original Cola and Cherry Vanilla flavors for Black Friday and Cyber Monday, followed by a retail debut in February, priced at a premium to traditional Pepsi, Kirkham said.Poppi, whose acquisition was completed in May, also offers Classic Cola and Cherry Cola flavors with a nearly identical nutritional profile, but Kirkham sees the two as complementary, selling in two separate soda segments that reach different consumer sets.Kirkham broke down the new product, and how it fits into its portfolio alongside Poppi and aligns with Pepsi’s larger beverage innovation strategy.This interview has been lightly edited for length and clarity.Why did Pepsi decide to develop this product?One of the things we wanted to do is address two opportunities. One is the declining cola category. Particularly, we’ve seen occasions drop over time in the core, but especially in diet [soda], and also to look for new ways to deliver more, better-for-you functional ingredients into our core. And obviously this was early days in what has become the modern soda business, and we started working on this well over a year ago.We found…we could get to an amazing-tasting product that is no artificial sweeteners, that’s 5 grams of cane sugar, that’s got the taste of Pepsi…But also it’s got prebiotic fiber…And it’s the kind of ingredient that we’ve seen bringing new consumers into the category. The reality is, no one has that in cola, and obviously super complimentary to Poppi, who do have two cola SKUs, but that’s only 8% of their mix. We feel this is a great opportunity to: one; bring innovation to the traditional cola category; two, compliment this amazing new family member in Poppi—they are the leader in developing the modern soda category; and then three, offer choice. Offering choice to our consumers is the ultimate goal of these innovations…It’s a win-win for the consumer, and it’s a win-win for us.What are your thoughts about how similar those products are?A lot of what makes Poppi so special is it’s been built from the ground up. It always was clean label, natural ingredients. One of the biggest drivers there was always the apple cider vinegar. When you taste their cola, particularly their cherry and their regular cola, it’s a very different flavor profile than, let’s say, traditional cola, like we offer with Pepsi. We felt there are a lot of cola lovers out there that have this certain expectation of a cola flavor, particularly of Pepsi, but they also want alternatives in terms of different sweetener systems, or added benefits, or having lower sugar. Being able to address that part of the market that may not be being addressed through the cola segment within modern soda—that’s where the real opportunity is for us.The prebiotic soda space has been popping off for several years. What instigated the development of this product now?We were just listening to the consumer, and we were seeing the emergence of different segments in the category.This is about Pepsi, and Pepsi delivering a new product to address the consumers of cola, or, in the case of maybe some of the younger consumers who maybe didn’t grow up with cola like I did, right?…We’re bringing them in through the fact that this is only 5 grams of sugar, no artificial sweeteners, that it’s only 30 calories, and the prebiotic fiber gives it a new way to bring in a different audience and a new consumer.We actually think it’s a great opportunity for, let’s say, Gen X female diet cola drinkers. There’s an opportunity to really source from a broader range of consumers. This is not just a pure Gen Z play, which is very much what’s built modern soda. This is a broader play for cola lovers.How are you balancing innovating on the core versus bringing on acquisitions like Poppi?The reality is you have to do both…I like to say “core and more.” The only way you’re really going to drive growth in some of our categories is to really ensure that your core is healthy and that you’re continuing to innovate your core, but at the same time, you cannot miss out on these new and emerging categories, like what we saw in modern soda and Poppi. It’s a balanced approach that you need to take with innovation, but you must make sure that you’re doing both core and more, because we built this amazing brand for over 125 years. We’’ve helped create amazing products through our Diets, through our Zeros, but this next generation of consumer and as the category evolves, there’s opportunities to offer new innovation within the core, and that’s what we’re doing.This report was originally published byRetail Brew.Join us at the Fortune Workplace Innovation SummitMay 19–20, 2026, in Atlanta. The next era of workplace innovation is here—and the old playbook is being rewritten. At this exclusive, high-energy event, the world’s most innovative leaders will convene to explore how AI, humanity, and strategy converge to redefine, again, the future of work. Register now.
Embarking on a Creative Voyage: Makeup as a Medium of Self-Expression
Addison Gilbert
Makeup is not just about enhancing beauty; it's an artistic expression, a creative space, and a confidence booster. As an aficionado and practitioner in the realm of aesthetics, I am excited to impart my expertise on the dynamic world of cosmetics. This blog serves as your guide, leading you through the newest makeup trends, essential techniques, and the timeless charm of beauty. Shifting Makeup Trends: A Spectrum of Change The cosmos of makeup is perpetually evolving, influenced by fashion, culture, and global events. A trend towards lighter, more natural-looking bases is on the rise, with the "natural" makeup look becoming increasingly popular. This trend focuses on the radiance of healthy skin rather than heavy makeup or dramatic contouring. The emergence of daring and experimental makeup is one of the most thrilling recent shifts. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have become the stage for a new wave of makeup artists who are eager to challenge creative limits. From striking eyeliner to innovative lip designs, these trends inspire us to think creatively and enjoy the makeup application process. A growing emphasis on skincare is another significant trend. The "skin health first" philosophy advocates for skin care before makeup application. A solid skincare routine not only improves skin health but also provides an ideal base for makeup. Many brands are now offering products that blend skincare benefits with makeup, such as moisturizers with SPF or foundations with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid. Enduring Makeup Techniques: Timeless Grace While trends may wax and wane, certain makeup techniques stand the test of time. Mastering these can help you achieve a refined look, whether for a casual day out or a sophisticated evening affair. Achieving a Smooth Base: The foundation of any exceptional makeup look is a flawless, even complexion. Begin with a primer to smooth and extend the wear of your makeup. Select a foundation that matches your skin tone and texture, ranging from a sheer tinted moisturizer to a full-coverage formula. Blend the foundation seamlessly using a beauty sponge or brush, focusing on areas requiring additional coverage. Camouflaging and Illuminating: Concealer is essential for covering blemishes and brightening the eye area. Choose a concealer one shade lighter than your foundation for under-eye application and a matching shade for spots. Apply and blend the concealer with a small brush or your finger to ensure seamless integration with your skin. Adding Depth with Contour and Highlight: Contouring and highlighting can add dimension to your features, accentuating your natural beauty. Employ a matte bronzer or contour powder to define your cheekbones, jawline, and nose. Apply a highlighter to the high points of your face for a luminous glow. Accentuating Eye Makeup: Eyes often take center stage in any makeup look. Start with an eyeshadow primer to secure your eyeshadow in place. Opt for a neutral shade for the lid, a deeper shade for the crease, and a shimmering shade for the inner corner and brow bone. Use eyeliner to define your eyes, from a subtle line for a natural look to a bold flick for a dramatic effect. Complete with mascara to lengthen and volumize your lashes. Defining the Brow: Well-defined brows frame the face and enhance your overall appearance. Fill in any sparse areas with a brow pencil or powder, following the natural shape of your brows. Set them with a clear or tinted brow gel to keep them in place. Lip Design: Lips can make a statement, whether you opt for a bold color or a subtle shade. Begin by exfoliating your lips to remove any dry skin, then apply a lip balm to hydrate. Use a lip liner to define your lips and prevent your lipstick from bleeding. Select a lipstick or lip gloss that complements your overall makeup look. The Essence of Beauty Makeup is more than following trends or mastering techniques; it's about embracing your unique beauty and expressing your individuality. In a world that often imposes strict beauty standards, makeup can be a potent instrument for self-love and self-empowerment. A crucial lesson I've learned is that makeup should be an extension of who you are, not a facade to conceal behind.
Female Hair Loss: Hair Today Gone Tomorrow
Sarah Johnson
I’ve always had trouble with my hair. You see, this is the kind of hair that is neither straight nor beautifully thick and voluminous, bouncy, curly, but somewhere in between the two – thin, frizzy, frizzy and requiring a LOT of attention.When I was little, even my mother didn’t know what to do with it and so my hairstyles ranged from messy with bangs, to ‘let’s just cut the whole thing short’ like a boy, and then ending up with by far the worst haircut you’ve ever seen…. a mixture of the two. Yes, Mom gave me a mullet – curly and short on top and a long wavy curtain of hair reaching down my back…. a classic 80s kid.Today I still struggle with it, but thanks to the invention of GHD hair straighteners, hair oil and my fantastic hairdresser who also has a bit of a love-hate relationship with my hair, I have been able to find peace with it. I accept that I will never be one of those women who wakes up in the morning with the just-got-out-of-bed look (I look like I’ve dragged myself through a hedge, then rubbed my hair against a balloon and then stood in a wind tunnel), that in reality there is literally one day of the year when the weather suits hair like mine (even the slightest amount of moisture in the air and I’m screwed, too hot and it gets sweaty, which leads to more moisture problems), and that there is only one hairstyle that really suits me), so I just have to stick to it..u9c52fb58b1addd655277827db81ac03a { padding:0px; margin: 0; padding-top:1em!important; padding-bottom:1em!important; width:100%; display: block; font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaeaea; border:0!important; border-left:4px solid #34495E!important; text-decoration:none; } .u9c52fb58b1addd655277827db81ac03a:active, .u9c52fb58b1addd655277827db81ac03a:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; text-decoration:none; } .u9c52fb58b1addd655277827db81ac03a { transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; } .u9c52fb58b1addd655277827db81ac03a .ctaText { font-weight:bold; color:#464646; text-decoration:none; font-size: 16px; } .u9c52fb58b1addd655277827db81ac03a .postTitle { color:#9B59B6; text-decoration: underline!important; font-size: 16px; } .u9c52fb58b1addd655277827db81ac03a:hover .postTitle { text-decoration: underline!important; } See also4 reasons why this South American country is perfect for solo female travellersHowever, one thing that really bothers me is the fact that my hair is wavy yet thin. And what annoys me even more is the amount of hair that falls out when I wash it. I mean seriously, I can’t afford to lose a thank you! I can literally pull it out as I’m rinsing the shampoo from my hair, feel it tangle between my fingers and then watch as it lands in a tangle on the shower tray before clogging the drain with a giant matted hairball.I remember when I first had my kids, I went from possibly having the best hair I’ve ever had (thick, shiny, manageable) to suddenly having bald spots on the crown of my head that I had to strategically cover and comb. And the hair in the shower… well let’s just say my husband must have wondered if I secretly got a dog without telling him, it wasThatbad! Luckily it sorted itself out after a few months and grew back extra fluffy like a little baby duckling, but every now and then I still get a little worried about the amount of hair I’m losing and whether it’s actually normal to lose the amount of hair I’m losing.Female pattern baldness is the most common form of baldness hair loss in women and it is thought to be inherited. So if your father or mother has become a little thin, it is likely that you will also have problems in the future. However, other factors such as age and hormones also play a role, meaning hair loss is usually more noticeable during puberty, pregnancy and menopause..uea21bbad22c831ff469fdb0604a94de1 { padding:0px; margin: 0; padding-top:1em!important; padding-bottom:1em!important; width:100%; display: block; font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaeaea; border:0!important; border-left:4px solid #34495E!important; text-decoration:none; } .uea21bbad22c831ff469fdb0604a94de1:active, .uea21bbad22c831ff469fdb0604a94de1:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; text-decoration:none; } .uea21bbad22c831ff469fdb0604a94de1 { transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; } .uea21bbad22c831ff469fdb0604a94de1 .ctaText { font-weight:bold; color:#464646; text-decoration:none; font-size: 16px; } .uea21bbad22c831ff469fdb0604a94de1 .postTitle { color:#9B59B6; text-decoration: underline!important; font-size: 16px; } .uea21bbad22c831ff469fdb0604a94de1:hover .postTitle { text-decoration: underline!important; } See alsoKat Graham Fell In Love with Her Natural Hair While Filming Vogue's Beauty SecretsBut what is a normal amount of hair loss and when should you worry?The The average woman loses between 60 and 100 hairs per daywhich is actually quite a lot and if you have long, very dark hair like me, it will obviously look a lot more than someone with short blonde hair. But this is completely normal and part of the hair growth cycle.There are 4 phases in hair growth:Anagen – (Growing) cells divide rapidly, resulting in new hair growth.Catagen – (Menopause) Hair stops growing and cuts itself off from the blood supply.Telogen – (rest) The hair needs some time to grow the hair underneathExogen – (hair loss) Hair falls out.And then the cycle starts all over again.During pregnancy, a larger number of hairs enter the resting phase, making it appear as if a woman’s hair has become thicker. However, once the woman gives birth, the hair stops resting and enters the shedding phase. Since there are more and more hairs at rest, it goes without saying that more hair needs to be shed. That’s exactly what happened to me.For most women, hair loss is just part of our daily natural body cycle, but there are of course cases where it is hair loss becomes a bigger problem and is much more noticeable than a few loose strands in the shower.Hair loss can be the result of many different things, including stress, illness, extreme and rapid weight loss, anemia, cancer treatment, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). If you experience regular hair loss that results in patchy baldness, a receding hairline or thinning of the scalp, you should consult your doctor or speak to a hair loss specialist..ue2734553d366295007589560dda0616e { padding:0px; margin: 0; padding-top:1em!important; padding-bottom:1em!important; width:100%; display: block; font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaeaea; border:0!important; border-left:4px solid #34495E!important; text-decoration:none; } .ue2734553d366295007589560dda0616e:active, .ue2734553d366295007589560dda0616e:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; text-decoration:none; } .ue2734553d366295007589560dda0616e { transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; } .ue2734553d366295007589560dda0616e .ctaText { font-weight:bold; color:#464646; text-decoration:none; font-size: 16px; } .ue2734553d366295007589560dda0616e .postTitle { color:#9B59B6; text-decoration: underline!important; font-size: 16px; } .ue2734553d366295007589560dda0616e:hover .postTitle { text-decoration: underline!important; } See alsoChoosing the right surgeon for crown hair transplantsThere are many different options available to treat or disguise hair loss. So you don’t have to suffer in silence or be ashamed of what is happening to you. In most cases, hair returns to its normal growth pattern, but during that vulnerable and often distressing time when hair loss is at its most extreme, it’s important to realize you have options.I feel very fortunate that my hair loss has been very minor and that despite what I may think about my hair, it is in fact completely normal.I still feel a little damaged by that photo of me as a child, you know!*collaboration message
Used Tesla prices are tumbling as incentives near the end of the road
Jennifer Brown
The price of used EVs continues to decline.The Tesla Models S and X both saw drops of more than 15% from June 2024 to June 2025. On the whole, the EV category saw prices fall 4.8% year over year.Tesla’s not only facing challenges with its new cars, its used options are losing their value at a rapid clip as well.The latest numbers from iSeeCars, which tracks used car prices, found the electric-vehicle category has seen prices fall 4.8% year over year, while internal combustion cars and trucks have gotten 5.2% more expensive.Of all EVs, Teslas have seen the steepest declines, perhaps due to the brand’s struggles that have come with Elon Musk’s increasingly divisive public stance on political and governmental issues. Declining interest in EVs overall is also to blame.A Tesla Model S in June was worth $8,768 less than it was in June of 2024. That’s a 15.8% drop. The Model X didn’t fare much better, with its value dropping $9,544 (or 15.5%). The Model Y saw the third biggest decline, falling 13.6% ($4,637).Used EV market share growth plummeted to just 14.2% in the past year, iSeeCars reports, which is down from a growth rate of 98% in 2024. While prices are falling, people are getting rid of their EVs at a faster pace, too, with supply increasing.All of the price drops come before the $4,000 incentive for buying a used EV comes to an end on Sept. 30. The loss of that discount could push prices considerably lower.“Electric vehicles have a role to play in the new and used car market,” said iSeeCars Executive Analyst Karl Brauer, “but that role won’t be at the level many government and private EV proponents have been touting for years. Everything from market share to pricing suggests EV demand has peaked and will likely decline in the coming years.”Join us at the Fortune Workplace Innovation SummitMay 19–20, 2026, in Atlanta. The next era of workplace innovation is here—and the old playbook is being rewritten. At this exclusive, high-energy event, the world’s most innovative leaders will convene to explore how AI, humanity, and strategy converge to redefine, again, the future of work. Register now.
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